The Haunting of the Lecture Hall
If you could invite one person from the past to give a lecture in your classroom, who would you choose and why?
Hungarian-born polymath John von Neumann (1903–57). His work has impacted many areas of the mathematical sciences, including physics (quantum mechanics), economics (game theory), and mathematics proper. I love his quote “Young man, in mathematics, you do not understand things. You just get used to them.”
—Gizem Karaali, Pomona College
Holocaust survivor and founder of logotherapy Viktor Frankl (1905–97). His insights into life’s meaning and experiences offer lessons in resilience and critical thinking and have enriched fields such as psychology, sociology, and philosophy. Frankl’s teachings promote self-discovery, compassion, ethical responsibility, and inquiry into the power of perception.
—Jennifer Kelly, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
Nineteenth-century mathematician Ada Lovelace (1815–52). As a pioneer in computing and a trailblazer for women in STEM, Lovelace did groundbreaking work with inventor Charles Babbage to lay the foundation for modern computers. Her algorithm for the analytical engine, the first of its kind, demonstrated remarkable foresight.
—Foong Soon Cheong, Willamette University
French author Jules Verne (1828–1905). My general education evolution course students would find him relatable and could learn from his research and writing strategies. He could also inspire them to write science fiction!
—Laina Lockett, George Mason University
First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt (1884–1962). From opposing lynching in the 1930s to passing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 and later becoming the first woman to host a major public affairs television show in the 1950s, Roosevelt worked to advance world peace, the rights of women, and protections for politically marginalized communities.
—Angie Beauchamp, University of New Mexico
Educator Jaime Escalante (1930–2010). His dedication to teaching mathematics and physics would inspire my students to engage with those fields. As an immigrant and a self-made man, he would especially motivate students to overcome educational obstacles.
—Tuan Dean, Triton College
Ancient Greek political philosopher Plato (428/27–348/47 BCE). I would invite him to my federal government class to discuss The Republic. I would ask him to explain his views of different types of government and then provide an evaluation of the current state of government in the United States. I am sure his insights and comments would spark some great conversations.
—Greg Ramzinski, South Plains College
Progressive writer Randolph Bourne (1886–1918). His insights into literature were matched by his uncompromising resistance to the United States’ entry into World War I, his boldness in countering what we now refer to as ableism, and his plea for treating immigrants with dignity and respect. His essay “The Handicapped—By One of Them” was a groundbreaking statement against discrimination.
—Robert Ingoglia, St. Thomas Aquinas College
Abolitionist Harriet Tubman (1822–1913). She would inspire today’s youth to fight injustice with wit and moral strength. Despite the hardships she endured as an enslaved person, her approach to freeing others was
nonviolent—no property destruction or harm to others. Her strength stemmed from the power of the cause. She joined forces with White women to fight for the right to vote. An enduring legacy indeed!
—Anu Gokhale, Saint Augustine’s University
Illustrations by Joel Kimmel